The game of golf is one that allows for many emotions to come to the fore. From reaching levels of happiness to a quick decline of anger, the game is full of surprises. Many of its athletes have personal routines in which to deal with the flow of the game, one in particular being Ryan McCormick. McCormick has adopted a new strategy during the Korn Ferry Tour, taping his mouth shut to keep from expressing his anger. An idea many may second guess, but one that McCormick has found to be his last resort and hope.
“Pretty angry and mad,” McCormick said. “I’ve tried a lot of things, just figured I’d shut myself up.”
Ryan McCormick and Unconventional
It has not been the expected season wanted by the veteran by any means, with the frustrations rising every tournament. In the 27 total events played by McCormick, he has made the cut in only nine events total. With one top five finish in his time thus far, there is only room for changes to his game in furtherance of success. Not only has his only course game been rough, but also controlling his anger during appearances. McCormick has yet to find an answer in multiple departments, but taking a positive step in his mind with taping his mouth.
“I was hoping that it would help me, can’t say that it did or didn’t,” McCormick said. “I don’t want to create an experience for my playing partners that’s not fair.”
The game of golf will only continue to bring ups and downs, especially at this level of play. Although there is no indication this switch in play, has had any internal success. There is still hope for the 33-year-old to turn the present around for the better.
Time Is Of The Essence
While still young in age, a career in this sport is not one always secure for longevity. While turning pro in 2014, it has been an uphill battle to say the least. The competition in front of McCormick is only getting stronger by the season, with many young stars making a name for themselves. The window for a signature event win is closing by the day, with evident anger issues being no help.
With an ear open for any help to improve his underlying issues, one positive came in interactions with his caddie. With a mouth taped shut, the traditional verbal communication became non factor. Instead, numbers between the two were simply written down with eye communication.
“Mostly just writing down the numbers, I would just point and ask him for a read sometimes,” McCormick said.
That on the fly ability to make the best out of an up in the air addition, is what will push McCormick over the hill. Sometimes it’s just about scratching and clawing yourself out at a hole, and living to see the success on the other side. With ten plus years in this sport, the first career win for McCormick will feel like second to none when his number is called.
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